If you’re planning a destination wedding, you may not know there’s a different timeline for sending your invitations than for an at-home wedding. Fortunately, sending your destination wedding invitations on time is easy-peasy when you work with an experienced wedding travel specialist (like me!). I’ve outlined the timeline you’ll want to follow and answered some of couples’ most frequently asked questions so you can have a stress-free planning experience. Keep reading for all the details, and remember to bookmark this page to reference later!

Destination Wedding Invitations FAQs

Do I need to send my save-the-dates earlier for a destination wedding?

Generally, yes. Resorts are booking faster than ever in the post-pandemic era, so you should reserve your wedding date and finalize your room contract ASAP. Once you’ve done so, you can create a wedding website with all pertinent details for your guests. Then, it’s time to send your save-the-dates—remember to include a link to your website to make the process easier on your loved ones!

Your RSVP date should be whatever date the resort provides as the cut-off for booking rooms into your contract. It’s crucial to ensure your guests receive this information, especially if your contract specifies a financial penalty for booking late! Sending save-the-dates is the first and most essential step of the destination wedding invitations timeline, so don’t put it off. The sooner your guests know the details of your celebration, the sooner they can start planning to attend!

How soon should I send my destination wedding invitations?

Most couples are surprised to learn that official wedding invitations aren’t essential for a destination wedding! Invitations are a mere formality, assuming your guests received all pertinent information via your save-the-dates and wedding website. I’d estimate that around 50% of my couples skip this step entirely to free up room in their budget.

However, if you’d still like to send official invitations, I recommend doing so one month before your RSVP date. Doing so will gently remind your guests who haven’t yet booked their rooms to do so ASAP.

What information should I include in my destination wedding invitations?

If you’d like to send official invitations, you should enclose the following:

• Destination
• Resort name
• Wedding date
• Wedding website link
• Wedding event timeline (optional)

Do I need a wedding website? What goes on one?

Absolutely! A wedding website is a must if you’re planning a destination wedding. If you don’t have one, you can expect dozens of calls, texts, and emails from confused guests requesting information—not exactly a recipe for stress-free planning! Your wedding website should list the following:

• Wedding date
• Travel dates (a typical room contract sets a 3-night minimum)
• Location (destination and resort name)
• Room types included in your contract, with pricing
• How to book (hopefully with a certified destination wedding specialist!)
• FAQs

Here’s an example website from one of my couples to inspire your own.

When should I set my RSVP deadline?

Your RSVP date should be the agreed-upon date with your resort as the final day to book rooms into your contract. This date should be listed on your save-the-date, then again on your invitation to give your guests plenty of advance notice!

Experience Simplified Planning with Bridie Travel

When you work with me as your destination wedding specialist, I’ll create your wedding website so you don’t have to! I’ll provide all relevant due dates to you and your guests, including the RSVP/booking date, final payment dates, and flight booking deadlines. Plus, I’ll answer every question your guests throw at me so you can focus on wedding planning. Ready to get started? Let’s connect!